The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket league, it is a million-dollar business venture. The amount of profit generated by IPL is equal to many small nations whole GDP. The involvement media makes it even bigger. At the halfway stage of IPL 2025, they got 288 million television viewers, which is a massive audience. But amidst all these things, the important questions arise when national sentiments and human tragedies collide with sport. In light of the recent tragic events in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where lives were lost and the nation mourns, a section of the public is asking a tough question: Should the IPL take a pause out of respect?
The Case for Respect Over Revenue
Pahalgam is not only a tourist destination now, but it also bears the weight of collective grief. Almost 27 tourist lost their lives here, and some were left injured. When tragedies like this happens, the nation often demands silence and solidarity. In such moments, the sight of packed stadiums, cheerleaders, and branded jerseys can feel deeply disconnected from the emotional pulse of the country. Last night, IPL decided that there would be no cheerleaders and fireworks, but will it be for every IPL match that question remains?
In the year 2001, the Major League Baseball (MLB) games were postponed in the United States (U.S), because of the 9/11 attacks. The Premier League has often paused for moments of silence or rescheduled after major national incidents. When people are grieving, sport is expected to show humility, not just highlight reels.
IPL: Game or Capitalist Machine?
The IPL is a money-making machine in India currently. Franchise owners, sponsors, broadcasters, advertisers, etc., are engaged in this billion-dollar business cycle. Also, many of the entities are involved in online betting, again used for money-making. If any match gets cancelled, it will not only cause financial loss but also loss in terms of brand visibility and engagement.
The critics are making this exact point as their weapon, when profit becomes the guiding compass, the game risks losing its soul. Cricket has long been India’s unifying religion, but when it's seen bowing to market forces rather than moral moments, the sport might face backlash from the fans.
Voices on Both Sides
Some of the audience are arguing that cricket or sports are part of entertainment, and act as a stress relief for many. We need distractions, we need something to cheer for,
say fans who believe the IPL can coexist with mourning, much like how communities gather around a TV set to feel human again during difficult moments.
Some say that the loud music, fireworks, and ad campaigns don't show any sensitivity towards the national problem. It's not just the playing of cricket, but how it is being played is the problem here. The black armbands, moment of silence, and no cheerleaders strike a better balance?
The Real Question: Can Cricket be Compassionate?
Cricket has often stood for more than sport — whether it was India-Pakistan diplomacy on the field or tributes to fallen soldiers. The question isn’t whether the IPL can be paused; it’s whether it’s willing to listen. Are organizers and broadcasters so locked into their schedules and sponsor slots that empathy becomes a casualty?
Sometimes, the strongest message a sport can send is by choosing not to play.
Conclusion
The IPL must reflect on what it truly stands for. Is it simply an entertainment juggernaut, or can it also be a mirror of the nation’s conscience?
A moment of silence before a match won’t erase pain, but it will show solidarity. A postponed game may not change lives, but it will show that cricket — and its caretakers — still have a heart.
And maybe, just maybe, that’s more powerful than a six over midwicket.
About the Author
Advait Kadam is a sports writer at Vygr Media, specializing in cricket coverage and match analysis. With a background in Sports Management and a passion for storytelling, he brings sharp insights and fresh perspectives to every game.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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